Pacifiers and teeth? Everything you need to know for your baby

Pacifiers and teeth: 4 reasons pacifiers may be helpful with teething babies

Here are four top pros when it comes to pacifiers and teething:

1. Comfort: if your baby is fussy, especially when teething, a pacifier can offer a temporary distraction and comfort.
2. Sleep: teething can cause babies to struggle to settle. Pacifiers may help them drift off without needing to feed to sleep.
3. Relief: A specialized teething pacifier, especially when popped in the fridge or freezer, can offer temporary relief for sore gums when your baby is teething.
4. Disposable: Unlike babies that suck their thumb or fingers, a pacifier can be thrown away when it’s time to break the habit.

Pacifier and teething babies: Dos and don’ts

It’s important to remember these top safety tips:

• DO replace old, damaged, or cracked pacifiers. The damage may be caused by teething, chewing, or just general wear and tear. We recommend replacing your pacifier every 4 weeks just to be safe!²
• DO properly clean and sterilize your baby’s pacifiers³, as bacteria can lead to plaque and damage to your baby’s teeth.
• DO allow them to cool fully after washing and sterilizing before returning them to your baby.
• DON’T force your baby to use a pacifier if rocking or changing positions could help to comfort and calm them.
• DON’T put sweet things like honey or syrup on a pacifier to encourage use as this increases the risk of caries and other damage to your baby’s teeth.⁴
• DON’T let your baby chew on a pacifier as this could damage the nipple and lead to choking. Instead, opt for a specially designed pacifier and teething toys if they want to chew rather than suck.

Frequently asked questions to learn how to choose a pacifier

If you have questions, we’re here to help. Here are the answers to frequently asked questions to help you learn how to choose a pacifier:

• What is a pacifier?
  A pacifier is a product designed as a nipple substitute. They are often given to babies and toddlers to suck as they help to satisfy their need to suck as a form of security and comfort.
• What is the best pacifier for teeth and health?
  Pacifiers made from food-grade silicone are often the safest options, free from harmful ingredients like BPA.⁵ Whilst latex pacifiers are completely safe to use, they may not be suitable for families with allergies.⁶,⁷ For those with allergies and sensitivities, silicone pacifiers may be preferred.
  
• Which pacifier type is the best shape for developing teeth?
  To help avoid the risk of your baby’s teeth pushing forward, the best pacifiers for teeth are orthodontic pacifiers. These are specially shaped to protect your baby’s teeth as they grow and develop.
  Top tip: Pick pacifiers from the Philips Avent range such as the ultra-soft pacifier which supports natural oral development.
  
• Are pacifiers bad for teeth?⁸
  While pacifiers aren’t necessarily bad for teeth, there is some evidence that frequent, prolonged use may lead to some problems such as misaligned teeth. This is why it is important to use pacifiers safely and only offer them when needed.
  
• Are Avent pacifiers bad for teeth?⁸,⁹
  As mentioned above, pacifiers aren’t necessarily bad for teeth but there is some evidence that frequent, prolonged use may lead to some problems.
• Do pacifiers help with teething?
  Pacifiers can ease the pain from incoming front teeth and comfort your baby while satisfying their desire to suck. For extra relief, pop the pacifier in the fridge to cool it down, or opt for a specially designed teething pacifier.

Whether you’re wondering which pacifier is best for teeth, need to know the pros and cons of using a pacifier, or have questions such as, “Are Avent pacifiers bad for teeth?” this article has you covered. Now you can make an informed decision when choosing a pacifier for your baby.